How to Take a Multiple Choice Test

Prepare yourself by understanding the structure of a multiple-choice test and how to approach these types of exams. By carefully analyzing each question and choices offered, you can increase your chances of performing well on any multiple-choice test you take.

Get a good night’s sleep before the examination and eat before arriving for the exam. Feeling rested and eating a balanced diet will go a long way in relieving pre-test jitters.

Allow plenty of time to travel to the examination site. If you are not sure where the test location is, drive there the day before to familiarize yourself with the area. It is important to plan for traffic, accidents, etc. Once the examination begins, the doors will be locked, and you will not be allowed to enter.

The test items are multiple choice. They are designed to have only one answer. More than one answer may seem correct, but only select the best of the choices offered.

Read all of the directions carefully.

Read each question completely before answering it.

Questions left blank will be marked as incorrect. It is in your best interest to answer all of the questions, even if you have to guess. Your score will be based on the number of correct answers.

If you have the option of choosing what section you want to begin with, consider which would be the best for you. Would it be better to begin with the section you find the most difficult or to begin with the easiest? For some people, answering the easy questions first is a time saver and a confidence builder.

Periodically check to make sure your answer sheet is correct and corresponds to the question you are on.

Periodically check the clock; do not spend too much time on any one question.

Plan your time so that you may complete the examination within the time allowance.

You will be told when to start and stop.

Interpret words according to their generally accepted meanings.

If you get stuck on a question, don’t get worried and frustrated. Re-read the question to make sure you understand it, and answer it to the best of your ability.

Remember: the process of elimination can help you choose the correct answer in a multiple-choice exam. Start by crossing off answers that can’t be correct. Then spend your time focusing on the possible correct choices.

When you are finished and have extra time, don’t stop! Go back to review your answers where allowed, making sure you didn’t make any careless mistakes, such as putting the right answer in the wrong place.